Avoiding Snake Encounters

The Northern Copperhead boasts hourglass-like banding patterns on its body
and a copper-colored head.

The most distinguishing feature of the Timber Rattlesnake is the rattler on
its tail, and dark chevron shaped bands along the length of its body. There are
other telltale signs to distinguish if a snake is venomous. An arrowhead-shaped
head is one characteristic of a venomous snake; vertical, elliptical pupils –
rather than the round pupils of nonvenomous snakes – are another.

If you come across a snake, it’s best to leave it alone. However, if you
must examine it, do so from a safe distance. Snakes can only strike about one
third to one half of their body length, but use common sense when inspecting a
snake.

If you don’t get close enough to look at the pupil shape, check for deep
holes, sometimes referred to as pits, located directly beneath each eye.

“Pits are an identifying feature of whether or not a snake is dangerous,” explains West Virginia University Extension Service’s Wildlife Specialist Sheldon
Owen. “Nonvenomous snakes won’t have them.”

While West Virginia’s venomous snakes typically prefer to hang out in
densely forested areas, they have been known to dwell in other places.

“Snakes like to find cover. If you have brush piles, debris, or any tin or
metal lying out in your yard, that may attract snakes,” said Owen. “Also be
alert around old barns or any old structures.”

Signs of a snake inside the home include snakeskin, snake droppings
(characterized by hair and bone contents), or strange noises in the walls or
vents. Also be alert for snakes if you have a mouse infestation as snakes prey
on mice and small mammals.

If you suspect a snake is living in your home, contact your local animal
control center or the local division of natural resources.

To avoid snakes when hiking, Owen suggests using a walking stick to hit any
brush that you’re walking through and wearing boots and long pants.

When
crossing a log, step on the log first and then step over it. This avoids
startling the snake.

If rock climbing, be aware of where you put your hands. Rocks provide great
thermal environments for cold-blooded snakes.

Also, campers should avoid setting up camp around brush, as snakes tend to
dwell under the cover of leaves and thickets.

If you ever encounter an aggravated snake, back away and try to find a route
around the snake. Never try to pick up, capture or step on a snake. That may
provoke it to strike.

“Most often, snakes only strike if they feel threatened or cornered,” said
Owen. “Use a long stick to try to shoo it away; if you give them an out,
they’re going to take it.”

Agitated Timber Rattlesnakes make a rattling sound as a warning. While
copperheads don’t have a rattler, they still may “rattle” as an indicator of
aggravation by hitting their tail off of leaves and debris.

Never try to cut the skin or suck the venom out with your mouth. These
practices do not work and should not be attempted. If in the woods, hike to the
closest inhabited area to seek help. If left untreated, depending on the
individual reaction, snakebites can be fatal.